Political Parties Back Raila's Call For Talks With Gen Z

The Political Parties Liaison Committee endorsed the proposed national conversation, echoing Raila’s appeal as a way to ease the escalating political tensions that have triggered widespread protests against President William Ruto’s administration.

Political Parties Back Raila's Call For Talks With Gen Z
Members of the Political Parties Liaison Committee during a press briefing on July 11, 2025. /MARVIN CHEGE.VIRAL TEA KE

A coalition uniting various political parties announced on Friday, July 11, their support for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s call for a national intergenerational dialogue.

The Political Parties Liaison Committee endorsed the proposed national conversation, echoing Raila’s appeal as a way to ease the escalating political tensions that have triggered widespread protests against President William Ruto’s administration.

Speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi, Vice Chairperson Christopher Kilonzo and Organising Secretary Andrew Njoroge emphasised the need for national dialogue. They argued that the frustration being voiced by Generation Z towards the government should be addressed through meaningful discussions rather than continued street demonstrations, which have resulted in loss of life, property damage, and growing instability.

ODM leader Raila Odinga addresses the public during the laying of the foundation stone for the Maganda Early Childhood Development Centre in Jomvu, Mombasa County, on June 24, 2025. /RAILA ODINGA

Kilonzo described the proposal as the start of a new national chapter aimed at bringing an end to the ongoing civic unrest.

"We are a dialogue committee for all registered political parties. We serve as a neutral dialogue platform and are ready to help solve the crisis our country is facing because we are now standing at a critical crossroads," said Kilonzo.

"We propose a national conversation that is citizen-led. This is not the time for delay but action. The protests have brought a breakdown of trust in public institutions in the country."

Kilonzo stated that the country must now shift from outrage to constructive action. He emphasised that the process would be inclusive, allowing all citizens the chance to share their perspectives.

The group assured Kenyans that the proposed dialogue would not be a secretive political deal, but rather open and transparent discussions.

"As opposed to past dialogue initiatives led by politicians, we propose that this be led by the people themselves so that politicians do not take centre stage in its recommendations," said Kilonzo, adding, "Issues such as police brutality and corruption will be exhaustively discussed, and their outcomes will be implemented. The dialogue will tackle youth unemployment."

They also called on President William Ruto to back the initiative, stressing that their efforts are driven purely by the interests of the nation.

Raila, who spoke during a media briefing at the Serena Hotel while making his Saba Saba Day address on Monday, July 7, called for the formation of a national conclave to address the growing distrust between Kenyans, especially the younger generation, and the Kenya Kwanza government.

"I propose an inclusive intergenerational national conclave to hear our people across all divides and come up with irreducible reforms and changes necessary to take the country forward," he proposed.

He further proposed that the conclave envisage comes up with better and sustainable ways for addressing Transparency, Accountability, and Impunity, especially with regard to corruption and ensuring that leaders are held accountable for their actions.

"I propose that the forum come up with a comprehensive and sustainable strategy for addressing youth unemployment and expansion of opportunities for youth in the formal and informal sectors," he added.

"Such a national conclave must have clear terms of reference and be populated and helmed by the most serious and sober minds in our nation."

Demonstrators hurl stones at Kenyan security forces during a protest in downtown Nairobi on Tuesday, June 25, 2024. /AFP.GETTY IMAGES